New legislation allowing Kiwis to build granny flats of up to 70 square metres without a building consent marks a significant win for both homeowners and renters, opening more affordable living options amid a stabilising property market. The Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dwellings) Bill simplifies the process for building small, code-compliant dwellings.

One of Waiheke Island’s most storied properties has hit the open market for the first time in forty-five years, and it’s already capturing international attention.

New Zealand has postponed changes to its foreign home-buyer rules, delaying legislation that would allow holders of the Active Investor Visa Plus (AIP) to purchase or build homes valued at more than NZ $5 million (about US $2.8 million).